If looking for an interesting day trip, consider taking a drive or bus to Valladolid for the day. Located just 2 a hour drive from Merida, Cancun or the Riviera Maya area, Valladolid is one of the most beautiful cities in the Yucatan. Founded in 1543 by Francisco Montejo, Valladolid also makes a perfect "hub" point for those travelers who have a few days and are interested in visiting several different Mayan ruins. Because it turns out that Valladolid is central to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Coba. Plus it's just a bonus that the Rio Lagartos and San Felipe ecological reserves are nearby as well.

Filled with majestic churches, old mansions and buildings that speak of times of conquest, a Spanish heritage and the indigenous Mayan past, Valladolid's rich historical legacy is carried on proudly by its friendly people who open their doors daily for visitors to get a glimpse of one of the Yucatan's most beautiful Colonial cities.

History & Spanish Influence

Valladolid played an important role in the conquest and holds a special place in the heart of all Mayan people because the area's natives refused to accept Spanish dominion. When conquistadors arrived, the area was known to Mayan's as "Saci" (white hawk in Maya) and was a major political and religious center of the lords of the noble Mayan house of Cupul. Because of its importance, Saci was home to other Mayan nobles as well such as the Cupules of Conil and Cocones of Satuta who were not at all interested in being dominated by Spaniards and refused to subjugate themselves to their rule.

However, with time the entire Yucatan Peninsula was finally conquered by Montejo and after the difficult war on the Cupules of Conil he built Valladolid right on top of the Mayan temples of Saci. Montejo called his new headquarters Valladolid, after the city of the same name in Spain is where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella were married. Interestingly enough the Spanish Government has recently deemed Valladolid as one of the most authentic Spanish cities in the Americas and has granted large sums of money to aid in its preservation.

Valladolid is the second oldest city in the Yucatan and its narrow streets and aged buildings give testiment to a glorious past that even bore witness to the War of the Castes. Today Valladolid is known as a city that carries its rich legacy quietly in the tourism sector so not much is ever publicized about it. But upon arrival visitors will find a thriving commercial center that has been critical to the Yucatan's development throughout the years.

Accomodations in Valladolid

Use INSIDER'S Search & Reservation Tool for the best Valladolid hotel prices available!

NOTE: Sometimes the hotels are very small and are not registered in our master database. In case nothing comes up in the search box, listed below are a few of the small but wonderful hotels in Valladolid! tell them Sherri at Cozumelinsider sent you! ;-)

BY AIR
The Kahua Airstrip is 20 minutes away from Valladolid.
Check local air charter companies for potential prop plane service.

BY BUS
Several buslines leave hourly from Merida, Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen going to Valladolid.
Check with local bus lines for current departure times and pricing.

BY CAR
When driving, the Merida-Valladolid-Cancun highway is the main highway connecting the city to the rest of the country by Federal Highway 180. Several highways now connect with 180 from the major cities of the southeast like Campeche, Merida, Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

Tired of visiting the sights as part of the "herd?" Cannot find an excursion that exactly fits how you'd like to spend your day on the mainland? No problem! COZUMELINSIDER can custom design a mainland excursion just for you and your group!
From US$168

This is the newest dolphinarium and by far one of the most exclusive ones. It is situated in the heart of Puerto Aventuras, in an exclusive luxury resort. It is a quiet and the ideal place to relax as the only distraction you will have are the charming beaches and exotic jungle. Not only this is an exclusive and unique location in Quintana Roo, but it also has amazing facilities so you can enjoy the activities that you will be able to enjoy with the dolphins. Among these activities you can enjoy the Kayaks, a total new experience and exclusively at this location, you can have fun on the kayaks with family or friends while the dolphins play and swim all your way.
US$ 159.00 Adults / US$ 89.00 Kids

This most popular program can be described in two words: "action" and "speed". Get a handshake, a kiss and then you give them one. Feel the strength of your new friends as they push you across the water from the bottom of your feet in the thrilling foot-push. It is "the experience of a lifetime!"
US$ 179.00 Adults / US$ 99.00 Kids

15 min Briefing and 45 min in the water; Round trip Cancun - Isla Mujeres - Cancun, departing from the pier Playa Tortugas; Continental breakfast, national open bar and lunch buffet at Garrafon Reef Park; The Dolphin Encounter ® program in Isla Mujeres includes the sea round trip Cancun - Isla Mujeres - Cancun, from the pier Playa Tortugas; During this program in Isla Mujeres, the dolphin will give you a Handshake, Hugs and Kisses, they will sing and you will have free time to enjoy your new marine friends; Snorkel equipment, life jackets, kayaks, hammocks, pool, and showers; Lockers; Zip Line
US$ 129.00 Adults / US$ 99.00 Kids

Dolphin Playa at Maroma stands in the beautiful beach of Maroma Adventure, one of the top ten places in the world. Our newest and largest dolphin habitat in the Mayan Riviera is located just 10 minutes driving from Playa del Carmen. Here you will be able to live an unforgettable experience, closely interaction with cute and friendly dolphins.
US$ 159.00 Adults / US$ 89.00 Kids

This most popular program can be described in two words: "action" and "speed". Get a handshake, a kiss and then you give them one. Feel the strength of your new friends as they push you across the water from the bottom of your feet in the thrilling foot-push. It is "the experience of a lifetime!"
US$ 159.00 Adults / US$ 89.00 Kids

Spectacular day trip whale shark snorkel experience with boat departing from Isla Holbox! Personal service from a professional guide who escorts guests the entire way from Isla Cozumel to Isla Holbox!
US $210 Per Person